Middle school art students showcased at Fly Bird

The sixth grade arts students at Brooks and Julian middle schools have created beautiful, colorful, metal bird-themed artwork for the 7th annual Fly Bird student art auction, to benefit the Oak Park Education Foundation (OPEF). The show takes place at Fly Bird, 719 Lake St. in Oak Park from Feb. 28 through April 3. It is open to the public. A reception for student artists will take place on Friday, Feb. 25 from 6-8 p.m. at Fly Bird.The middle school artists approached the project with the concept of exploring beautiful birds in their natural habitat. They were influenced by two types of Haitian artwork: the metal work traditionally made from recycled metal oil drums, and the sequined flags traditionally used as part of religious ceremonies and now sold to tourists. The work is made in the format of the flags but out of metal. Teacher Chris Worley led the project with fellow art instructors, Kristi Murray and Lynn Reising.

Bidding starts at just $15, with a "Buy It Now" option of $40 per piece.

Fly Bird, an Oak Park specialty store, donates all proceeds from the show to the Oak Park Education Foundation's Art Start program, which matches visual and performing artists with District 97 students for hands-on residencies. OPEF is an independent, non-profit organization.